The primary objective of an artificial disc
replacement is to replace damaged or painful disc while maintaining the
original anatomical structure of the spine. In the last few years, demand for
this procedure has increased. It is being developed as an alternative to lumbar
spine fusion. ADR is being formed for alleviating pain in the spine. A large number
of people suffering spinal problems benefited from this procedure. Read on to
find out about theoretical advantages of ADR.
At present, spinal fusion surgery Atlanta aims at stopping the
motion at a painful movement by removing the damaged disc and joining bones
together. However, removal of the disc as well as the motion at a vertebral segment
brings drastic changes in the mechanics of the back, which is designed for
flexibility as well as motion, and transfers the stress to the adjoining vertebral
segments. Over the period of time, the increased stress on remaining spines
causes degeneration at those levels, which can cause pain in lower back once
again.
When it comes to artificial discs, the theory states
that replacing damaged or injured disc with a product that structurally is
similar would maintain natural mechanics of the human spine. Just like a
natural disc, the objectives of a prosthetic disc are to
- Shear stress, which occurs in the lower back (through normal movements such as sitting, bending and twisting)
- Function like a ‘shock absorber’ in the lower part of the back
Indications that it is the time for
artificial disc replacement
- Artificial disc products which are in either user or development are meant for people who have the following conditions:
- Those who are the candidates for spine surgery
- Aged between 18 and 60 years
- Have not responded to medication and other non-invasive methods for at least six months
- Have been diagnosed with degenerative disc disease, especially at the single level
- Suffer from pain in the lower back, which is also the main complaint
There is very possibility that you might find above
slated indications to similar to the indications for the condition known as
lumbar spine fusion.
ADR is the last resort for those patients who are
suffering from the chronic pain in the lower back. There is no denying the fact
that lower back can be extremely severe, affecting one’s ability to even perform
day to day tasks. Initially, orthopedic or spine surgeon like Dr. Erik Bendiks starts the treatment
with medication, anti-inflammatory drugs, therapies and exercises. He makes
sure that a patient suffering from this condition gets most effective available
treatment. Only when a patient fails to
give response to any of these treatment options that artificial disc replacement is recommended.
Spinal stenosis is yet another condition which has
affected millions of people across the globe. It refers to a condition bone
channel occupying spinal cord or spinal nerves narrows over the period of time.
While some people are born with this condition, there are others who develop as part
of degenerative disc disease. It can affect lumbar and cervical area and treatment
for spinal stenosis relief is
initiated accordingly.
